Scientists must focus on making agriculture profitable: Guntur Collector

Guntur District Collector CM Sai Kanth Varma addressing a gathering during the 63rd Foundation Day celebrations of Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University at Lam in Guntur district on Friday. | Photo Credit: T. VIJAY KUMAR

Scientists should intensify research aimed at increasing the profitability of agriculture for farmers by using modern technology, Guntur District Collector CM Sai Kanth Varma said on Friday.

Addressing the 63rd foundation day celebrations of Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) in Lamu, Mr. Varma said the university had played a key role in strengthening the country’s food security through the development of improved crop varieties, especially in paddy cultivation.

He described ANGRAU as a matter of pride for the Guntur region and urged scientists to focus on practical innovations that could increase farmers’ incomes through small but effective improvements in cultivation practices. He also emphasized the need for value addition to agricultural production to help farmers secure better returns from their harvest.

The collector called for more research into healthy food systems in light of the increasing incidence of civilization diseases. He emphasized the importance of promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices and reducing dependence on harmful chemical inputs.

Referring to rising temperatures and increasing climate variability, Mr Varma said scientists should develop solutions to help farmers withstand adverse weather conditions. He assured the university of the district administration’s support for such initiatives.

On the occasion, ANGRAU Vice-Chancellor PV Satyanarayana outlined the university’s future plans, including crop diversification, development of nutrient-rich crop varieties and use of artificial intelligence to address labor shortages in agriculture. He also announced plans to set up Agri-Tech Skill and Incubation Centers across the state.

Scientists, students, farmers and graduates participated in the program.

Published – 12 Jun 2026 19:28 IST